Sink your teeth into a foodie adventure from coast to coast, uncovering the best of the best that define an American staple—sandwiches.
The most iconic sandwiches from across the country are a must-try on a travel bucket list. Did you know that Americans consume an estimated 300 million sandwiches every day? That’s nearly one for every person in the country!
These sandwiches best represent their regions’ local ingredients and flavors. Join us as we unwrap the layers of flavor that make up America’s top sandwiches.
Pastrami-on-Rye
Katz’s Delicatessen has been a New York staple since 1888, known for its colossal pastrami sandwiches. Each sandwich contains nearly a half-pound of beef, cured for weeks, smoked for days, and then steamed to perfection. Food enthusiasts and celebrity chefs alike praise its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors.
Lobster Roll
Eventide Oyster Co. redefines the traditional Maine lobster roll with their brown butter vinaigrette lobster roll served on a steamed bun. Rather than mayonnaise, they use a special brown butter sauce that complements the fresh, succulent chunks of lobster. This twist has not only garnered local acclaim but also attracted seafood lovers from across the nation.
Cubano
The Cubano at Versailles in Miami is not just a sandwich; it’s a slice of Cuban-American history. Roasted pork, ham, mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese are layered between crispy, buttery Cuban bread. It’s been declared the gold standard for Cubanos everywhere, with a flavor that transports you straight to the heart of Havana.
French Dip
Philippe the Original claims to have invented the French Dip sandwich back in 1918. The sandwich includes thinly sliced roast beef dipped in its own cooking juices, served on a fresh French roll. Their consistent quality and historical charm make Philippe’s a must-visit for sandwich lovers exploring L.A.
Pork Tenderloin
Nick’s Kitchen in Indiana is the birthplace of the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, a Hoosier state icon. The pork is pounded thin, breaded, fried, and served on a soft bun with onions and pickles. This humble diner continues to draw crowds eager for a taste of this crispy, juicy comfort food classic.
BBQ Brisket
At Franklin Barbecue in Texas, the BBQ brisket sandwich is a masterpiece of slow-cooked perfection. The brisket is smoked for up to 18 hours, creating a smoky crust and tender meat that nearly falls apart on your fork. Fans line up early for a taste, often waiting hours for what many say is the best BBQ in America.
Falafel Sandwich
Mamoun’s Falafel in Greenwich Village has been serving up authentic Middle Eastern falafel sandwiches since 1971. Their falafels are made from scratch with fresh herbs, spices, and chickpeas, fried to crispy perfection and tucked into a pita with tahini sauce. It’s a flavorful, vegan-friendly option beloved by New Yorkers and tourists alike.
Pulled Pork
Skylight Inn, with its iconic replica of the Washington Monument, has been celebrated for its pulled pork sandwich since 1947. The pork is cooked whole hog over oak wood, then chopped and topped with a vinegar-based sauce. This sandwich offers a quintessential taste of Eastern North Carolina barbecue.
Italian Beef
Al’s Beef in Chicago serves a legendary Italian Beef sandwich soaked in gravy, known locally as “juicy.” The thinly sliced, seasoned beef is piled into a dense, Italian-style roll, which is then dipped into the cooking juices. This savory, messy delight is a beloved Chicago tradition, often enjoyed with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Reuben
Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor is famed for its gourmet take on the classic Reuben sandwich. This sandwich features house-made corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled between slices of fresh Jewish rye bread. Make sure to order ahead of time to enjoy this sandwich!
Salmon Bagel
Russ & Daughters in New York City has perfected the art of the smoked salmon bagel. They layer velvety smoked salmon with cream cheese, capers, onions, and tomato on a hand-rolled bagel. This iconic restaurant has been a part of the NYC food scene since 1914.
Monte Cristo
The Monte Cristo at Disneyland’s Blue Bayou Restaurant offers a twist on the traditional sandwich. It consists of turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese in a battered and fried sandwich dusted with powdered sugar, served with a side of berry puree for dipping. This combo of ingredients is one you’re sure to talk about for years to come.
Po’ Boy
Parkway Bakery & Tavern in New Orleans serves a Shrimp Po’ Boy that’s brimming with local flavor. Fresh, cornmeal-battered shrimp are stuffed into a crusty baguette and dressed with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. This sandwich is a delicious nod to New Orleans’ rich culinary traditions and has been a favorite since 1911.
BLT
Pine State Biscuits in Oregon takes the BLT to the next level with their biscuit-based version. Thick-cut bacon, ripe tomatoes, and crisp lettuce are sandwiched between freshly baked, buttery biscuits. This reinvention of a classic has made Pine State a destination for those seeking a unique and satisfying meal.
Chicken Parmesan
Parm in New York City offers a refined version of the classic chicken Parmesan sandwich. Breaded chicken cutlets are smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served on a soft roll. A true testament to New York’s ability to perfect Italian-American classics.
Turkey Devonshire
The Union Grill’s Turkey Devonshire sandwich is a Pittsburgh original, invented in the 1930s. It features turkey, bacon, and tomato, covered in a creamy cheese sauce and broiled until bubbly. The open-faced sandwich is a decadent, cheesy delight that pays homage to Pittsburgh pride.
Jibarito
Borinquen Lounge in Chicago introduced the Jibarito, a sandwich that uses fried plantains instead of bread. Stuffed with steak, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and garlic, this sandwich is a nod to Puerto Rican flavors. It’s become a cult favorite for those seeking a unique, gluten-free option.
Banh Mi
Saigon Sandwich in San Francisco crafts a traditional Vietnamese Banh Mi. They fill a crispy baguette with pickled vegetables, cilantro, jalapeños, and a choice of meats like pork or chicken, all seasoned with piquant sauces. This sandwich is a delicious blend of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions.
Cheesesteak
Pat’s King of Steaks claims the title of the inventor of the Philly Cheesesteak, a city icon since 1930. This sandwich is all about simplicity: thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and onions on a long roll. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Philadelphia.
Hot Brown
The Brown Hotel in Louisville is the birthplace of the Hot Brown, an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon and a rich Mornay sauce. Created in the 1920s to satisfy late-night diners, this sandwich offers a taste of Southern hospitality with its creamy, comforting flavors.
Egg Salad
Konbi in Los Angeles has taken the simple egg salad sandwich and elevated it to an art form. They use soft boiled eggs, homemade mayo, and crispy shallots, served on a perfectly toasted baguette. Konbi gained Instagram fame for the sandwich’s presentation and balance of flavors, appealing to both the eye and palate.
